Fenugreek

Radiance Fenugreek helps support milk production in breast feeding mothers. The exact mechanism of the breast milk enhancing action is unclear but it is thought to relate to the following:

Fenugreek seeds contain steroidal saponins, including diosgenin and yamogenin, which are precursors for various steroids, including male and female sex hormones. Diosgenin is, in particular though to increase milk supply.

Fenugreek is thought to stimulate sweat glands and as milk ducts in the breasts are modified sweat glands, this could be a possible mode of action. Interestingly sweat produced while taking fenugreek smells of maple syrup. If there is no sweet odour, the fenugreek dose may not be high enough to affect milk production.

Fenugreek is a highly nutritious herb which improves digestion and appetite by enhancing the activity of carbohydrate and lipase enzymes. It also contains high amounts of mucilage which helps to soothe, coat and lubricate the gastro-intestinal tract, helping to reduce inflammation and ulceration in the gut and respiratory tissues. Studies have also shown significant cholesterol and blood sugar lowering activity by delaying glucose absorption and enhancing its utilisation in people with and without diabetes. Fenugreek is also shown to increase libido and erectile function in men.